olidays Special lebration for Alzheimer’s Patients Involve Them in Holiday Preparations Including them in simple holiday preparations can be grounding for them — after all, it helps to establish a sense of purpose. Setting the table, wrapping presents, or even stirring ingredients while someone else cooks can help them feel productive and included. Remember to keep tasks straightforward and l ow-stress — the goal is engagement, not perfection. Use Visual and Sensory Cues Familiar smells, sights, and sounds can bring comfort and spark memories.
Less is sometimes more! Use Less Stuff Day, celebrated on Nov. 16, reminds us that sometimes less is more. Simplifying our spaces can lead to lower stress, increased clarity, and a greater focus on what matters most. This is especially relevant for seniors and patients with Alzheimer’s, as cluttered environments easily overwhelm and overstimulate them, affecting their well-being and comfort. Streamlined spaces can help foster a calming, peaceful atmosphere that’s easier to navigate. For Alzheimer’s patients, extra items or visual clutter can contribute to confusion and anxiety. Minimalism in the home, with carefully chosen items that offer familiarity and comfort, provides a sense of ease. For instance, rather than a table covered in various knickknacks, just one item evokes memories without causing distress. Reducing visual clutter is safer, as having fewer obstacles will help prevent falls and other accidents. Simplifying environments benefits not only those with cognitive challenges but for everyone. Clutter increases stress levels, impacts focus, and even leads to decision fatigue. By creating organized, intentional spaces, we open ourselves up to a sense of calm and greater enjoyment of the things that truly add value to our lives. For example, having fewer but meaningful holiday decorations makes the season feel special without feeling excessive and over the top. And for daily routines, reducing what’s around us helps us stay more organized and present. To start celebrating Use Less Stuff Day, consider small steps like donating items you don’t use, organizing spaces with a clear purpose, and focusing on quality over quantity. Whether it’s clearing out a crowded closet or streamlining a workspace, remember that the goal is to make our environments support us, not overwhelm us! The Simple Joys of Celebrating Use Less Stuff Day DECLUTTER AND DE-STRESS
Play their favorite holiday songs softly in the background or share old family photo albums. Engaging senses like smell and sound can help them feel connected and bring back positive memories. Maintain Their Routine
Changes in routine can be stressful for those with Alzheimer’s, so try to keep mealtimes, medication, and rest periods as consistent as possible. If they’re used to a midday nap,
arrange activities around that schedule to
prevent irritability and confusion.
Spinach, Lentil, and Roasted Beet Salad
Inspired by MinamalistBaker.com
Ingredients
Dressing • 1/4 cup tahini • 1/2 medium lemon, juiced • 2 tbsp maple syrup • 3–4 tbsp olive oil • 1 pinch each salt and pepper
• 1/2 cup green lentils, rinsed clean • 1 cup vegetable stock (or water)
• 3 medium leeks, chopped • 1 medium beet, quartered • 1–2 tbsp olive oil • 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper • 4 big handfuls of spinach
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 F and grease a rimmed baking sheet. 2. To a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add lentils and stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes uncovered until all liquid is absorbed. Set aside. 3. Add leeks and beets to the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake 15–20 minutes. For crispier beets, bake for an additional 10–15 minutes. Set aside. 4. In a small bowl, whisk all dressing ingredients until combined. 5. In a larger serving bowl, combine spinach, beets, leeks, and lentils. Add dressing and toss to coat.
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